Welcome to our open, self-paced ESL study group. We can and hope to add networks to the group. This blog is the hub where you can find lessons, links to ESL learning resources, leave links to add to the network, post comment and questions. The study group project is experimental. Participate by sharing ideas and suggestions.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Fiction in Action: Whodunit is a new textbook for English Language Learners (it appears to me for Intermediate level) that is freely downloadable. I'm not a big fan of any textbook but, if you have to use one or want to use one, it is certainly worth a look.Here's how the publisher describes it:

Fiction in Action: Whodunit is something not seen before, a textbook designed to act as a bridge to extensive reading. Over 12 units encompassing two original six-chapter stories, the book introduces students to the hows and the pleasures of reading accessible fiction in English. Fiction in Action focuses on extended and connected passages in one genre—in this case, the detective story—familiarizing students with the language, style and literary conventions associated with this form of story. A special feature of the text is tasks that are not merely supportive of but intrinsic to the stories.

My notes: This site is a concise guide to some of the most commonly violated rules of writing, grammar, and punctuation. It is intended for all writers as an aid in the learning and refining of writing skills. Explore each of the rules to see examples of its application, and use the references to find additional explanations and examples on the Web or in print. Look up grammatical terms in the glossary.

For a wider variety of information, check related FAQs and other writing resources. Also, click on the Word of the Day until you've learned a few new words.

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Good day (whatever time of day it is where you are). I haven't posted since early December. I need to put myself on a calendar, schedule posting days and set email for auto-reminders.

This English learning site looks interesting and useful. Let me know what you think of it. Send me your favorites. Include a line or two description and tell us what you like best about the sites.

The English Self-paced Study Group is sluggish. I'll continue to post lessons for a while and see how it goes. I may move them here so as not to duplicate efforts.

I am taking an online workshop called "Multiliteracies and Collaborative Learning." Would anyone care to guess what "multiliteracies" refers to? I am trying out some web tools that I'll share with you.